The smartphone plan allocates 20GB of shared data across 10 devices, 40GB across 20 devices, or 60GB across 30 devices. The more data and devices, the higher the cost -- ranging from $139.99 through $349.99 per month. The first device must be a smartphone, with an extra charge tacked on for tablets, hot spots, and USB dongles. It's an additional $30 or $40 for unlimited talk and text.

The tablet plan covers anywhere from five to 30 devices, with the first device being a tablet. Prices range from $59.99 to $319.99 depending on the amount of data and number of devices.

The plans are available only through Sprint Business Direct, Care, or Telesales.

Sprint has been known for touting its unlimited data plans, and it will still keep its other business plans alive, including Business Advantage and Everything Business. But the new shared data plans mark a change for the company.

Caralene Robinson, a Sprint marketing vice president, said at the time that "the concept of sharing a monthly data allowance across a family or group of users increases the likelihood for a surprise monthly bill due to data overage charges."

Has the carrier changed its tune?

A Sprint spokesperson told CNET that the company offers online tools to business customers so they can view and manage their data usage.

"In addition, we only charge $0.015/MB in overage ($15/GB)," the spokesperson said. "And, unlike Verizon and AT&T who charge for the whole GB, Sprint only charges the business customer for what they use."

Updated 10:20 a.m. PTwith comment from Sprint. Clarification, 10:45 a.m. PT: The headline has been changed to make clear that Sprint has introduced the plans for small businesses.